"Working live kills" is the stark message from a new campaign that urges electricians to stop the dangerous and illegal practice of working on or near energised equipment.
- Working on live installations is dangerous and illegal for electricians in WA
- Linked to three deaths and 15 serious injuries in the last seven years
- Campaign features the voice of West Coast Eagles' co-captain, Liam Duggan
"Working live kills" is the stark message from a new campaign that urges electricians to stop the dangerous and illegal practice of working on or near energised equipment.
Building and Energy's impactful advertisements aim to capture the attention of electrical contractors and electrical workers at all experience levels.
Live work continues to be the leading cause of serious electrical burns, shocks, serious injuries and, tragically, deaths among electricians in WA.
Since 2018, three workers have tragically lost their lives and 15 others have suffered serious injuries on installations that were found to be live and not isolated correctly.
"The risks can be removed by following the vital rule: always isolate the electricity supply and test before you touch," WA's Director of Energy Safety, Peter Stewart, said.
"Electricity regulations prohibit live work except in specific, limited circumstances.
"Employers and senior staff can also play a key role by leading from the top - and by example - to uphold a robust safety culture and correct procedures at every job to ensure everyone goes home safely.
"Most safety checks take just minutes, but they can save lives. There's no excuse for cutting corners when it comes to electrical safety. The consequences can be deadly."
The "Working Live Kills" campaign will run until mid-September on radio, social media, online video and streaming platforms, as well as digital billboards across the State. West Coast Eagles' co-captain, Liam Duggan, shares the campaign's safety message in ads airing during the AFL finals series.
View the campaign videos on the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety's YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@LGIRSWA
